Tag Archives: all-new all-different avengers

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WynnonaEarp_01-pr_page7_image1It was new comic book day yesterday! What’d everyone get? What’d folks enjoy? What’d you dislike? Sound off in the comments below!

While you do that, here’s some comic news and reviews from around the web in our morning roundup.

Around the Tubes

The Beat – San Diego Comic-Con not on board with Chargers plans for new downtown stadium – Yeah, you usually talk to folks before name checking them as part of your pitch.

Nothing But Comics – Life During Miracleman’s Golden Age – A good read.

The Beat – French publishers announce boycott of Angoulême after disastrous 2016 festival – Good.

Women Write About Comics – A Man Created My Goddess: Dawn and Me – A really good read about influences.

 

Around the Tubes Reviews

Comic Vine – All-New, All-Different Avengers #6

Comic Vine – Aquaman #49

Talking Comics – Faith #2

Talking Comics – Hellboy and the B.P.R.D. 1953 #1

CBR – Justice League #48

Comic Vine – Justice League #48

CBR – Wyonna Earp #1

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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port_imposter_coverWednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!

We’re bringing back something we haven’t done for a while, what the team thinks. Our contributors are choosing up to five books each week and why they’re choosing the books.

Find out what folks think below, and what comics you should be looking out for this Wednesday.

Alex

Top Pick: Imposter #1 (21 Pulp) – Whenever 21 Pulp put a comic out, it’s worth paying attention. They are one of, if not the most exciting new publisher around. I was lucky enough to do an advance review of this book earlier this year, and I’m so excited to get my print copy on Wednesday (my shop actually ordered in two copies because I know my friend will love it). Cannot wait to read this again in print.

Bloodshot Reborn #11 (Valiant) – The best Bloodshot story I’ve read in a while, this arc is absolutely worth your time. The art is stunning, and Jeff Lemire is on fire here. Read this; you’ll not regret it.

The Goddamned #3 (Image) – Were it not for Imposter this would be my runaway top pick this week. I’m really enjoying the pre-apocalyptic story, and Jason Aaron’s take on the biblical stories. It’s brutal, bloody, and so so good.

Judge Dredd #3 (IDW Publishing) – Judge Dredd is so far out of his element in this series, that I just can’t get enough of him trying to enforce the law in a completely lawless land. The first two issues were fantastic, so I have high hopes for  this issue.

 

Paul

Top Pick: All-New X-Men #5 (Marvel) – I wasn’t sure about this title when it was first introduced, but damn am I enjoying the ride!  I have to say I’m over Warren and his moody worrying over Laura  every issue; dude, she’s Wolverine!  She can go running into a fight and come out of it…get over it Dawson.  And I would also like it if we saw more from Evan and Idie, other then just a panel here or there, or some background action.  BUT, this is definitely one road trip I’m on board with and look forward to this title.

All-New, All-Different Avengers #6 (Marvel) – I have been less then impressed with this title, but I stick with it…not exactly sure why.  Maybe hoping something good comes out of it?  This issue promises that; we finally find out why Vision has been acting like a tool and who the mystery bad guy is pulling his strings.  I just hope the reveal delivers the goods, or I think it’s time to give up this title.

All-New Inhumans #4 (Marvel) – Another great title I’m always looking forward to.  I love this whole world outreach program for Inhumans/Nuhumans; the cast of characters is great (loving Crystal in this leadership role) and this story arc especially feels very secret agent/spy like and I’m totally digging it.

Patsy Walker AKA Hellcat #3 (Marvel) – I remember reading issue 1 and I was thinking “Hellcat? More like Hello Kitty”  This was so cutesy and cartoony and totally not what I usually read…but here I am putting it on my top pick list.  I like the humour in it and seeing the everyday struggle for Patsy working towards her goal.  And sure she gets some superhero time but that doesn’t drive this title, and I’m ok with that.

 

Brett

Top Pick: Snowpiercer Vol. 3 Terminus (Titan Comics) – I’m a huge fan of the Snowpiercer comic series having read the first two volumes multiple times (one of the few comics I’ve done so). This third volume is a bit of a mystery to me, and were it goes I think will be interesting. Not knowing much about it has me excited and anticipating its release.

Imposter #1 (21 Pulp) – This first issue is choppy, but really fascinating. I don’t want to reveal the twist, but it’s a superhero series and something I don’t think I’ve seen before. To put out an original idea in a flooded market is impressive on its own. 21 Pulp is a publisher that should be on everyone’s radar.

Last Man Vol 4 Chase (First Second) – I love this graphic novel series and this latest volume is as much fun as the previous three. Great read for both adults and kids alike.

Street Fighter x G.I. Joe #1 (IDW Publishing) – The concept sounds goofy, but something also gets me to smile and think fun. I’m interested in seeing where this one goes and if it kicks up nostalgia like I think it will.

Transformers #50 (IDW Publishing) – I love IDW’s various Transformers series and this one is at the top of the pile for me. The last issue ended with a bang and this one sets off in a new direction as Earth is declared under the protection of Optimus Prime. But is it benevolence or a take over? Depends which side you’re on!

Age of Apocalypse Variants Ride Into Comic Shops This May!

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Enter Now…the Age of Apocalypse! As three epic Apocalypse Wars stories rage across the X-Men titles, new Horsemen will ride into comic shops for epic variant covers! The all-powerful Apocalypse has risen. Now, witness your favorite Marvel heroes reimagined in the style of Age of Apocalypse on over twenty blockbuster Marvel titles in May!

From Deadpool to the Guardians of the Galaxy to the Astonishing Ant-Man, witness some of the most popular Marvel heroes twisted and distorted to the will of Apocalypse! Marvel has revealed the following Age of Apocalypse Variants:

  • All-New X-Men #9 AOA Variant by Pasqual Ferry & Frank D’Armata
  • All-New, All-Different Avengers #9 AOA Variant by Khoi Pham & Frank D’Armata
  • Amazing Spider-Man #12 AOA Variant by Jamal Campbell
  • The Astonishing Ant-Man #8 AOA Variant by Will Sliney & Frank D’Armata
  • Captain America: Steve Rogers #1 AOA Variant by Paul Renaud
  • Guardians of the Galaxy #8 AOA Variant by Dale Keown & Jason Keith
  • Uncanny X-Men #7 AOA Variant by Ryan Sook

Look for additional Age of Apocalypse Variants to grace the covers of these exciting Marvel comics throughout the month of May:

  • Black Panther #2
  • Black Widow #3
  • Captain Marvel #5
  • Daredevil #7
  • Deadpool #11
  • Doctor Strange #8
  • Extraordinary X-Men #10
  • Howard the Duck #7
  • Invincible Iron Man #9
  • Ms. Marvel #7
  • Power Man & Iron Fist #4
  • The Punisher #1
  • Spider-Gwen #8
  • Thunderbolts #1
  • The Totally Awesome Hulk #7
  • Uncanny Inhumans #8

The Age of Apocalypse comes to your favorite Marvel titles this May! Run, don’t walk to your local comic shops to get your hands on these AGE OF APOCALYPSE VARIANTS! Plus, don’t miss APOCALYPSE WARS, three epic stories coming to Extraordinary X-Men, Uncanny X-Men and All-New X-Men throughout the Spring!

Mini Reviews For The Week Ending 2/1/2016

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Sometimes, the staff at Graphic Policy read more comics than we’re able to get reviewed. When that happens you’ll see a weekly feature compiling short reviews from the staff of the comics, or graphic novels, we just didn’t get a chance to write a full review for. These are Graphic Policy’s Mini Reviews.

Alex

dredd 2coverJudge Dredd #2 (IDW) This is one of the more interesting Judge Dredd stories I’ve read in  a long time; by taking the urban judge, jury, and executioner out of his most well known setting, we get to see a fish out of water as Dredd tries to enforce the law in a lawless land. Although far from a comedy book, there are some laugh out loud one liners here – frequently at Dredd’s expense. And before you ask, you don’t need to be a fan of Mega City One’s most famous citizen to enjoy this comic. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy

Victorie City #1 (IDW) This comic has a brilliant raw aesthetic to that you can’t help but love, and that compliments the gritty dectective fiction so very well.. So far, this issue is what DC’s Gotham tv series wishes it was. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Read

 

Brett

TFSOTW_03_cvrATransformers: Sins of the Wreckers #3 (IDW Publishing) – Not the strongest Transformers series. I think this one is for folks who have read the previous Wreckers stories, which I haven’t. Still, some interesting stuff here that expands the Transformers IDW Universe. Overall: 6.8 Recommendation: Pass

Superman #48 (DC Comics) – We’re getting closer to a return of the Superman we know, but I’m still not sure where they’ll go with his Clark persona. There’s a stealth epic story here, it’s just no one seems to know about it. It’s all interesting and a different take, but still not completely enjoying it. Overall: 6.9 Recommendation: Pass

Cry Havoc #1 (Image Comics) – A fantastic debut that’s a hell of a read and sets up a very interesting world. Looking forward to seeing where this all goes. Overall: 9.3 Recommendation: Buy

East of West #24 (Image Comics) – An interesting issue that seems to be really moving us towards some confrontation. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Read

The Fuse #17 (Image Comics) – If you’re a fan of police procedurals, this is one to check out, especially if you enjoy a sci-fi twist. Overall: 8.1 Recommendation: Read

Ringside03-coverMonstress #3 (Image Comics) – Just when I don’t think this series and world can get more interesting, it somehow does. This is quickly becoming a favorite of mine. Overall: 8.7 Recommendation: Buy

Revival #36 (Image Comics) – Still no idea where this series is going, but there’s a hell of a conspiracy building. Still a favorite of mine and look forward to seeing where each new issue takes us. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Read

Ringside #3 (Image Comics) – This series has been nothing of what I expected at all. It’s been solid so far, more like a less gritty revenge tale. There’s not a ton of wrestling like I expected, but holy crap is it good. Overall: 8.2 Recommendation: Buy

Southern Bastards #13 (Image Comics) – This issue shows why this series is one of the best out there. This is Boss’ series completely and has been an amazing build since the beginning. Overall: 9.4 Recommendation: Buy

Old Man Logan #1 (Marvel) – Holy crap was this a good first issue. It captures the feel of the Western genre the original story evoked mixed with a great revenge story. So fantastic. Overall: 9.7 Recommendation: Buy

Faith #1 (Valiant) –  An absolutely fantastic debut for a series that’s tons of fun and a character who looks like an actual person. So much fun and I’m really hoping this becomes an ongoing. Overall: 8.6 Recommendation: Buy

 

Mr H

superman 48.jpgSuperman #48 (DC Comics)* – So we can tell we are getting to the end of the line with the great Clark Kent experiment as he continues on his quest to regain his powers. So far it’s taken him to friends, foes, amazons and now the last thing you thought you’d ever see is kryptonite. While this story arc has done wonders for revamping Vandal Savage, the rest has fallen severely flat. Of course I’m more than excited for Superman to be back in full force, but I’m weary of the writing. You want a great Superman title? Read Lois and Clark monthly. The countdown to issue 50 is on. Will the launch be successful? Time will tell. The cliffhanger here was interesting though. Multiple artists on this issue dragged it down a bit for me visually however. The sooner we get Superman back. The better. Story: 7 Art: 6 Overall: Read

 

Paul

All-New All-Different Avengers #4 (Marvel)* – The new team of Avengers assemble to take down a mercenary named Cyclone who can create, yup, cyclones, who was hired to destroy casinos on the Atlantic City boardwalk. Ohhh where to begin with this. Well it definitely is all different, but not in a good way. The book opens with Jarvis sighing and showing how little he is looking forward to be joining the newest team of Avengers…which is totally out of character for Jarvis! Turning his nose up at the facility, the accomodations, the technology…which is NOTHING like the Jarvis we’ve seen over the many years. I’d be checking this Jarvis to see if he was a Skrull. And on the flip side, we have Thor flying off on her own, not listening to anything the others have to say, so sure she can handle the problem on her own..which she can’t..and drops a few hints to the others which gets them questioning that maybe an asgardian is not under that helmet. This is a completely different Thor then what we see in the pages of The Mighty Thor, and I am not a fan. And then we have the junior members who, like the first 3 issues of this book, do nothing but bicker and fight and squabble. Ok we get it, they’re teenagers…can we maybe break the mold and show them do something else? For the MAIN Avengers title, I am not terribly impressed, but compared to Uncanny and New Avengers, it is the better title out of the 3…but not by much. Overall: 6 Recommendation: Read (if you have some time to kill)

 

Ryan C

SouthernBastards_13-1The Twilight Children #4 (Vertigo)** – Something of an underwhelming finale to Gilbert Hernandez and Darwyn Cooke’s otherwise-exceptional series, nothing is explained here so much as it’s simply concluded. Certainly plenty of food for thought here and Cooke turns in arguable the best single issue of his entire career (which is saying something!), but I honestly don’t know how much of what’s left hanging is as a result of Hernandez deliberately channeling his inner David Lynch, or if he just couldn’t think of any explanations for the phenomena he was presenting and gave up trying. An intriguing way to wrap things up, for sure — but perhaps for the wrong reasons. I have a feeling this series will have a small but loyal cult attach itself to it in the years to come, while everybody else will just sort of scratch their heads and wonder what all the fuss is about. Story: 6 Art: 10 Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Buy

Southern Bastards #13 (Image Comics)** – It feels like we’re getting away from the stand-alone “character vignettes” and back into traditional plot progression territory as the Jasons (Aaron and Latour) prepare to put the wraps on their “Homecoming” story arc. Coach Boss may be well and truly fucked at this point — but do we still hate him enough to kick back and watch his demise with glee, or are we hoping he’ll fight his way out like a cornered dog, as he’s done in the past? I admit I don’t rightly know myself — and that’s one of the very best things about this series. Story:9 Art: 7 Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy

 

Sean

Insufferable Volume 1 (IDW Publishing) –  what happens to your favorite heroes when they retire? Some would make you believe some scenario like “Kingdom Come”, I believe it would be something like this. Mark Waid has done a different spin on the Batman and Robin myth is much like Image’s “Sex”, but even more tongue in cheek. This goes the way of If Robin had a huge ego after they retire and he has to team up with Batman for one last case. An enjoyable book from start to finish. Art: 8 Story: 9.5 Overall: 9.6

 

Well, there you have it, folks. The reviews we didn’t quite get a chance to write.

Please note that with some of the above comics, Graphic Policy was provided FREE copies for review. Where we purchased the comics, you’ll see an asterisk (*). If you don’t see that, you can infer the comic was a review copy. In cases where we were provided a review copy and we also purchased the comic you’ll see two asterisks (**).

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Old_Man_Logan_1_CoverIt was new comic book day yesterday! Did folks have luck picking up their new comics? Anyone impacted by the snow? For those that weren’t, what’d you like from this week’s releases? What was a clunker?

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Huffington Post – Diversity in Comics: Defining Afrofuturism, Afro-Blackness and The Black Fantastic – A good read for those that might know about these things.

A.V. Club – A California college is offering a free online course about comic books – Who’s signing up?

Atoll Comics – Listening to Phonogram: The Immaterial Girl #6 – Read about why you should check out this series now that its wrapped.

 

Around the Tubes Reviews

Comic Vine – All-New, All-Different Avengers #4

Talking Comics – Cry Havoc #1

ICv2 – DC Comics: Secret Hero Society #1

Comic Vine – Deadly Class #18

Comic Vine – Deathstroke #14

CBR – Faith #1

Talking Comics – Ghostbusters International #1

Comic Vine – Grayson #16

Talking Comics – Old Man Logan #1

Comic VIne – Old Man Logan #1

Talking Comics – Tomb Raider #1

The Beat – Up Down Clown

Talking Comics – Victorie City #1

 

Around the Tubes (Video Game) Reviews

Kotaku – LEGO Marvel’s Avengers

Sell-Outs and New Printing Roundup

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The Marvel Universe is charging forward with bold new status quos and blockbuster new stories. Don’t get left behind as your favorite characters and creators explode on to the scene with some of the hottest new titles in the industry! Marvel has announced over 15 Marvel titles will return to local comic shops in January for second printings!

Sorcerers supreme, teenage wallcrawlers, a young girl & her prehistoric pal, a brand new day for Earth’s Mightiest Heroes and so much more await you in the recharged Marvel Universe.  Be there when All-New, All-Different Avengers #2, All-New Inhumans #1, All-New X-Men #1, All-New Wolverine #2, Carnage #2, Daredevil #1, Doctor Strange #3, Extraordinary X-Men #3, Hercules #2, Howard the Duck #2, Invincible Iron Man #4, Moon Girl And Devil Dinosaur #1, Nova #2, Spider-Woman #1, Spidey #1, Star Wars #13, Totally Awesome Hulk #1 all return to comic shops in early 2016!

ALL-NEW ALL-DIFFERENT AVENGERS #2 SEC PRINT (OCT158851)
ALL-NEW INHUMANS #1 SEC PRINT (OCT158850)
HERCULES #2 SEC PRINT (OCT158852)
MOON GIRL AND DEVIL DINOSAUR #1 SEC PRINT (OCT158853)
SPIDER-WOMAN #1 SEC PRINT (OCT158854)
TOTALLY AWESOME HULK #1 SEC PRINT (OCT158855)
FOC – 12/14/15, On-Sale – 1/13/16

 

ALL-NEW X-MEN #1 SEC PRINT (OCT158856)
DAREDEVIL #1 SEC PRINT (OCT158857)
DOCTOR STRANGE #3 SEC PRINT (OCT158858)
HOWARD THE DUCK #2 SEC PRINT (OCT158859)
HOWARD THE DUCK #2 GWENPOOL SEC PRINT (OCT158860)
INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #4 SEC PRINT (OCT158861)
FOC – 12/21/15, On-Sale – 1/20/16

 

ALL-NEW WOLVERINE #2 SEC PRINT (OCT158862)
CARNAGE #2 SEC PRINT (OCT158863)
EXTRAORDINARY X-MEN #3 SEC PRINT (OCT158864)
NOVA #2 SEC PRINT (OCT158865)
SPIDEY #1 SEC PRINT (OCT158866)
STAR WARS #13 VDWN SEC PRINT (OCT158867)
FOC – 12/21/15, On-Sale – 1/27/16

Review: All-New All-Different Avengers #1

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image4Well we’ve been given The New Avengers and the Uncanny Avengers, both titles falling far short of my expectations. And no relaunch would be complete without a main Avengers team book being introduced. When this title was announced, I was most excited to see Thor, Captain America and Iron Man, the big 3, together on this team…but the exciting part was that this is a new Thor and Captain America, both new to their mantles. I was also interested in this line up, a team composed mostly of heroes picking up well established mantles; a bold move for being THE Avengers book…and for the most part, it pays off.

We open to a fairly typical super hero moment with Captain America saving a family from a traffic accident on a bridge. What wasn’t typical about this moment, was us getting a glimpse at this new Marvel Universe we’re seeing post Secret Wars (even though Secret Wars is still going on…yeah I know..) in that the public aren’t just cheering for the heroes, but now taking a step back and looking at them…deciding whether or not to accept these heroes; as one bystander states “that’s not my Captain America”. It really sets the tone for this team and how different is from past assemblages.

What follows is pretty standard stuff…big bad guy appears, swearing vengeance against the planet and its heroes (*yawn* Marvel really needs to lay off the Chitauri for a while) , though this baddie seems to have found an ally who we don’t get much information on.  Big bangs follow, and a few members of what will make up the team arrive on the scene to face the threat, but of course, this shows to be a threat that will require more assistance.

I really did like the characters and the interactions that Mark Waid has given us for this first issue.  He clearly gives me the characters I remember, shows that he knows them; but also shows us that things are not all status quo in this ‘new’ world.  The only downside is that there isn’t much for them to do, just a slow-moving set up.  Adam Kubert’s art was very good in this book; it was engaging and gave us some very nice spreads, but my favourite parts were the details and expressions on the characters; you really felt in the moment with these guys.

Overall, I enjoyed this book. True, it follows a familiar formula for a team book, but after some of the other books I’ve reviewed, this was very welcome. Not exactly All-New, All-Different, but I really enjoyed the characters and how they interacted, and I am very excited to see how the rest of this team comes together.  I definitely feel that this is the Avengers book to keep an eye on.

Story: Mark Waid Art: Adam Kubert
Story: 7 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7.75 Recommendation: Read

Sunday Roundtable: All-New, All-Different Marvel…. Is it?

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JLA Roundtable marvel anadOn Sunday, talking heads circle tables and pontificate on television about the hottest topics pressing our nation. We bring that tradition to our site as the Graphic Policy team gives our thoughts in each week’s Sunday Roundtable.

On tap this week?

We’re a little bit over a month into All-New, All-Different Marvel with lots of new series debuting. So far, do you think it’s really all-new and all-different?

Alex: I’ve really only read two or three comics from Marvel’s ANAD phase – Howard The Duck, Hercules and Extraordinary X-Men – and honestly? Howard was as good as it was before, I enjoyed Hercules quite a bit, but Extraordinary felt like a big prologue to the rest of the series. I don’t know if I’ll pick it up next month. From what I’ve read and seen, the reviews have been pretty hit and miss from Marvel the last month or so.

That said, some of the comics coming down the pipeline look very interesting to me (but they’re just relaunches of the series I was already reading…)

Elana: I won’t read Herc on principal. Why would Marvel editorial make one of their only bi characters straight. In Greek myths Hercules has romances with men and women. And in the comics in the past he was written explicitly as bi. Former writer Greg Pak has confirmed that about his run as well. It was a real step backwards from marvel to do this.

Amazing_Spider-Man_1_PromoMr. H: So far Amazing Spider-Man is gold! I’m not that taken with Avengers or Invincible Iron Man though. I haven’t read my copy of Extraordinary X-Men yet. I shall soon.

Brett: For what you’ve read so far? Does it feel like it’s all that different? To me, it’s pretty much the same.

Paul: I have read Extraordinary X-Men, The New Avengers, Uncanny Avengers, Hercules, Uncanny Inhumans and The Vision. X-Men feels ‘been there, done that’ with mutants facing yet another extinction level threat; it would be nice if something new could be explored instead of falling back on old formulas; new team, same reason for it. The Avengers titles, so far, have really disappointed me. I do not like how a lot of characters are being presented, which is a shame because so many great characters were added to the new line ups. Uncanny has lost its way with the many relaunches so close together, and The New Avengers just feels very juvenile and a waste of so much potential. Inhumans and Vision are the two stand out titles for me so far. Great characters, story and they really grabbed me with their first issues. I agree with Alex, some of the new ones coming up look good, but they are relaunches of what I’ve been enjoying already (hoping I still enjoy them with the new start). Overall, with only a couple exceptions, this does not feel All New or All Different. Sure we have some characters coming over from Secret Wars (Singularity and Old Man Logan, for example) but they are coming into stories and situations that feel rehashed (though A-Force hasn’t dropped yet, not sure of their mission). I’m hopeful, as always, to see what’s coming..but no, this does no feel new or different to me…so far at least. Come on and wow me Marvel!

2015-11-06-visionMr. H: Other than Amazing Spider-Man it all feels the same to me.

Of course I am going to read Doctor Strange #1 and #2 today and get a mini review up of #2 along with Secret Wars #7.

Brett: How were folks expectations going in? Anyone excited/interested in what was announced?

Mr. H: I was very excited with all new avengers and Extraordinary X-Men but not wowed yet

Alex: Not really, to be honest. I actually picked up an older Eternal Warrior comic today rather than one of the All-New, All-Different comics I could have picked up, which speaks volumes as to my interest level in what has already been released.

Brett: So far I’ve been underwhelmed, with some exceptions (The Vision being the standout). But, I can’t figure out what the new comics are missing for me. I’d outright say there’s some soul missing, but not even sure I know what that means.

What’s missing for you all?

Elana: What’s missing is diverse creative teams.

Paul: Originality is missing for me. From what I’ve read, it all feels familiar. New faces, but same stories/missions. Or in the case of New Avengers, they’ve gone in a really odd direction…feels like a bad kids cartoon show (thinking Avengers: United they Stand). I agree that Vision has been a pleasant surprise, and I really like Uncanny Inhumans. And there is more to still come and too soon for me to call this All-New, All-Different a wash, but so far it’s been ‘meh’.

Alex: Some soul?

I think you nailed it, honestly, Brett. Howard the Duck aside, there seems to be something missing, and soul (which, although an Image comic, is exactly what Limbo has in spades) is a great descriptor.

The All-New, All-Different seems underwhelming so far, but there’s still much more to come.

Brett: Yeah that’s the one word that keeps coming to me. The comics I’ve read are going through motion but missing that spark.

All-New_Wolverine_1_CoverAlex: Yeah – that’s one of the reasons I didn’t pick up All-New Wolverine today, and instead I picked up an older back issue I was looking for.

Brett: I’ve also noticed a lot of the comics riff off of other successful things. All-New Wolverine feels like Orphan Black a bit. X-Men is redone earlier plots. It’s weird.

Alex: It’s almost like they didn’t have a solid idea of where to take some comics.

Elana: Right now I think that Marvel has a lot of good books but very few outstanding ones. I know that the audiences for Squirrel Girl, Ms. Marvel and Captain Marvel are huge. I presume that Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur will be too. I liked the new issue of Howard the Duck more then the previous ones. But the title that has excited me the most has been All-New Wolverine. That wasn’t even a book I was looking out for! It just came and bowled me over.

Alex: I picked up All-New Wolverine today, largely on your recommendation, but I haven’t had a chance to read it yet.

Elana: Looking forward to getting your thoughts. I feel like the longer I think about it the more I like it.

Alex: I enjoyed it. Nothing can top Howard for me from the ANAD Marvel offerings, but All-New Wolverine was far better than I expected it to be. I think the best thing about the issue was that it felt like an organic next step for the character (I know very little about her, honestly), with forcing a female Wolverine on us because they could.

My one complaint? Drop the All-New from the title. If she’s Wolverine, title the comic as such. All-New implies that there will be a return of the old Wolverine (and I don’t mean Old Man Logan).

Elana: If Marvel really wanted all new all different they would have diversified their creative teams. Moon Girl is great but the only titles coming with black creators are still a ways off. Black Panther and Luke Cage / Iron Fist are going to be fantastic I’m sure. But it’s still a ways off.

I wasn’t particularly interested in any of the coming X titles but when the X-Plain the X-Men podcast had Dennis Hopeless on they totally sold me on his upcoming All-New X-Men teen roadtrip book. Diverse cast, cool concept.

Alex: Uncanny looks interesting to me because I want to see how they handle Sabretooth, but that’s because I enjoy seeing villains reform (however temporary it may be). Other than that I’ve found I’m more interested by books like Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur. As well as the ones I’ll be reading anyway (Moon Knight, Howard).

Brett: And there you have it folks! The Graphic Policy team has weighed in with their thoughts. What are yours? Sound off in the comments.

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The weekend is almost here! We’re spending it catching up on comics, and relaxing a bit before the crazy holidays begin!

While you contemplate what you’re doing this weekend, here’s some comic book news and review from around the web in our morning roundup.

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CBR – This life-size LEGO TARDIS probably isn’t bigger on the inside – When will LEGO make this as an actual set!!!

The Poke – Wow! Comic book genius Alan Moore donates £10,000 to help a couple embroiled in an immigration row stay together – Very cool and nice to see.

 

Around the Tubes Reviews

Comic Vine – All-New, All-Different Avengers #1

CBR – All-New, All-Different Avengers #1

Talking Comics – All-New Wolverine #1

The Rainbow Hub – All-New Wolverine #1

Comic Vine – Batman #46

CBR – Justice League: Darkseid War: Shazam #1

ICv2 – QQ Sweeper #1

Comic Vine – Superman: American Alien #1

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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All-New_Wolverine_1_CoverWednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!

We’re bringing back something we haven’t done for a while, what the team thinks. Our contributors are choosing up to five books each week and why they’re choosing the books.

Find out what folks think below, and what comics you should be looking out for this Wednesday.

Brett

Top Pick: Southern Bastards #12 (Image Comics) – There’s lots of solid comics out this week, but it’s a no-brainer to suggest the top comic on the market right now. This Southern noir comic delivers with each and every issue focused on a small town filled with racists, drugs, and football. There’s not much I can say yet about this issue other than it’s a special one written and drawn by Jason Latour.

Carnage #1 (Marvel) – Out of all of the comics announced by Marvel for their reboot, this one was low on my list. After the Point One comic released a month back, it immediately shot up the list. I’m intrigued by the premise which seems to follow Carnage on a killing spree and the man tasked to bring him in. It has a more Silence of the Lambs vibe than superhero.

Descender #7 (Image Comics) -Jeff Lemire is one of the best comic writers out there, and this new issue also starts a new arc. The comic is just an amazing character story that has vibes of the movie A.I., but done right.

Illuminati #1 (Marvel) -The Red Hood gets a band together to take on the good guys. I’ve liked some of the recent comics that have focused on Marvel’s villains and writer Joshua Williamson has shown he can do awesome action and twisted with Nailbiter and Birthright.

Letter 44 #21 (Oni Press) – This one shot illustrated by Ryan Kelly takes us back to the recruitment drive for the Clarke astronauts. The series mixes sci-fi and politics, and is awesome.

 

Elana

All-New Wolverine #1 (Marvel) – I haven’t read a straight up Wolverine comic in a lifetime. But promise me an all new Wolverine – – his teenage clone Laura Kinney, formerly X-23 and I’m ready for some snikt.

Central to my interest is her character design. Her street clothes are realistic street clothes for a young woman and she’s wearing her father’s old costume– not a bathing suitificaition of it. This design respects her as an individual and doesn’t turn her into cheesecake. The usual cheesecake treatment would have had nothing to do with her personality and therefore would have been sexist.

Catwoman #46 (DC Comics) – This issue concludes one of the most interesting story arcs in DC comics in ages and marks the departure of the awesome creative team:  (W) Genevieve Valentine — who we’ve interviewed (A) David Messina (CA) Kevin Wada.

Selina is Catwoman once more and Eiko Hasigawa, her “it’s complicated” and temporary Catwoman, is now taking over as a crime boss after her father’s assassination at the hands of Black Mask. The emotional stakes are high and the status quo is changing.

Constantine the Hellblazer #6 (DC Comics) – Easily one of the finest comics out by the big two publishers. I came into reading the series primarily familiar with the character from his appearances in Swamp Thing, the TV show and general cultural awareness. The comic is definitely welcoming to fans both new and old. There is a blend of dark humor, self destructive lust and relatable melancholy that’s required in a Constantine comic. Yet, the stories and art feel all new.

The Wicked + The Divine #16 (Image Comics) – Fans of the series joke about how we are tortured by favorite characters getting offed all the time. This makes sense since while the comic appears to be about popular culture it is also about mortality and youth. It has held a relentless pace of complex mystety and character and gorgeous, innovative art– guest artists included. Gillen is also one of the only men who consistently writes women characters so well that I can’t tell.

Wolf Vol. 1 TP (Image Comics) – One of the most interesting urban fantasy stories I’ve seen. Ales Kot is a promising innovator in storytelling. The LA the characters inhabit feels real to me.

 

Kenny

Top Pick: Catwoman #46 (DC Comics) – In the last few months, Catwoman has become possibly favorite offerings from DC. The crime drama is hitting all the right keys and is setting up for a great crescendo for the story arc conclusion.

Carnage #1 (Marvel) – This is my hopeful pick of the week. I still hold a soft spot in my heart for Carnage from the 90s. Even if, he hasn’t done anything to thrill me since then. But, for some reason, I still get excited whenever the evil symbiote comes around.

Rebels #8 (Dark Horse Comics) – Few comics embrace American mythos as well or as entertainingly as Rebels. Each issue is full of great stand alone stories making all of them a great jumping on point for history lovers.

Tyson Hesse’s Diesel #3 (BOOM! Studios) – Diesel has been an endlessly fun ride. With the mini-series picking up momentum, there is no better time to catch up on the story so far. This comic is just good and needs your attention.

 

Mr. H

Top Pick: Batman #46 (DC Comics) – Capullo, Snyder. Y’all know the drill. Buy this book or the GCPD will boot your door in.

Secret Wars #7 (Marvel Comics) – More than 3/4 through and we still live under Doom. I can’t wait to see the Thing cut loose too! It’s Cosmic clobberin’ time!!!

Superman: American Alien #1 (DC Comics) – I’m very intrigued with this one for sure. Not quite sure if I want young Clark Kent to be a lawbreakers bad ass but I’m willing to take the hayride and see where it goes.

The Walking Dead #148 (Image Comics) – After last month’s talk fest, I’m looking forward to getting back to the blood and guts that makes this title so great. Kind of hoping Carl gets it too.

 

Paul

Top Pick: All-New, All-Different Avengers #1 (Marvel) – Thor, Captain America and Iron Man…new mantles, new heroes, new Avengers.  I will admit, I am hesitant after reading Uncanny Avengers and The New Avengers (my reviews will explain why); this All New Marvel has left me with luke warm feelings.  But I’m digging the line up of this team and I am just hoping this is an Avengers title I can finally get on board with.

Top Pick: Thors #4 (Marvel) – The concluding issue of what, to me, has been THE best book of Secret Wars.  I’m sorry to see this one go, and I hope it ends on the thunder clap this series deserves.

All-New Wolverine #1 (Marvel) – I almost didn’t add this to my list, but I have to admit I am curious to see X-23 picking up the mantle of Wolverine.  I really hope we get a story exploring Laura in her new role and not just a hack and slash story with a female Wolverine.

Ultimates #1 (Marvel) – This is a very interesting roster of heroes brought together to stop cosmic level threats.  Black Panther, Captain Marvel and Ms. America are enough to get me excited….but if this cover is any hint that Galactus is part of the team?  I am ALL in!

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